CONVICTED (2018) | Ian Boyce, born c. 1966, and Leanne Ashworth, born 24/10/1976, both of Sycamore Avenue, Burnley BB12 6AS – left a dog to suffer for years with a severe skin condition.
Boyce and partner Ashworth were convicted in their absence of failing to act to ensure seven-year-old Staffy Sky received the appropriate treatment for a severe skin condition which resulted in lumps and bumps on her back and areas of skin that were red raw and bleeding.
Blackburn magistrates heard the dog’s misery was eventually ended when she escaped from her cruel owners and, after being narrowly missed by a police car as she ran across the road, jumped into the back of the car and settled down.
An RSPCA vet diagnosed chronic inflammation, blocked oil glands, infection and large cysts. He described her skin condition as preventable and treatable.
Ian Boyes was traced as Sky’s owner through her microchip but his attitude towards the RSPCA inspector was described in court as ignorant, rude and arrogant.
Boyes and Ashworth’s solicitor, in mitigation, told the court that it was due to financial reasons that Sky did not get the treatment she needed.
RSPCA inspector Lyndsey Taylor, who investigated the case, said: “Sky was suffering from severe skin condition which resulted in lumps and cysts, and her skin was red raw and bleeding. She must have been so uncomfortable with it.
“Sky’s situation came to light after she was running stray in the road and in front of a police car. When the officer stopped and opened the car door to get out, Sky jumped in. It was immediately obvious she was suffering. She was taken to a police station and we were called.”
Inspector Taylor said that Ashworth and Boyes “… were aware of the condition and had tried to treat it using medicated shampoo but she had not been to a vets recently. This was a condition which needed veterinary treatment as it was so severe.
“When I took Sky to a vet to have it looked at, they said it was entirely preventable and that she had been suffering as a result.”
Magistrates ordered that Sky be signed over into the RSPCA’s care. Inspector Taylor described her condition as “still healing but she looks and feels so much better”.
Boyes – 120 hours’ unpaid work
Ashworth – 42-day curfew
Both – total of £335 costs and charges. Banned from keeping animals for five years (expires October 2023)